The Spanish capital of Madrid is a big and brash Spanish city without the definitive reputation of some of Europe's largest cities, such as Paris and Barcelona. Instead, Madrid is all about discovery on your own terms.

The past, and politics of control

Madrid's past reveals a mix of Muslim and Christian control, cultures of which you can you still see in the city today through its architecture and culture. Madrid evolved to become an important Spanish city through the 12th and 13th centuries, when the stunning El Pardo Palace was built and its power grew. The city has retained its capital status since 1601 and survived the Spanish War of Independence, as well as a number of other traumatic events. It became a stunning capital city throughout the 17th century, and was the fifth largest city in Europe at the time. Madrid today is a city of resilience, that has lived through turmoil and dictatorships to find the democracy and freedom that is has today.

Madrid is all about culture, art and excitement to its inhabitants and visitors today. Not only is the city home to some of the world famous masters of art, such as Picasso, Dali and Miro, but the young city also has a number of interesting art exhibitions that prove the city goes on to inspire and encourage, despite its difficulties. The streets of Madrid are like an open-air museum, with monumental medieval mansions, royal palaces, and contemporary architecture almost everywhere you look. You don't need to buy a ticket to see the beauty that lies in this city – all you have to do is walk the old streets to experience its ingenuity.

Dining – high end yet traditional

Madrid has both the high-end dining culture of most capital cities, including dining experiences in some of the city's most beautiful ancient buildings, as well as the traditional Spanish staple of tapas available in its local bars and restaurants. The city is known for its exquisite fare, and has become world-famous among foodies looking for something unique and exciting.

Vibrant nightlife, not yet Barcelona but getting there

Like so many Spanish cities, staying up all night is most definitely the thing to do in Madrid. Its nightlife is coming into its own. In fact, Madrid has more bars than any other city in the world – everything from vast cavernous clubs to quaint all-night bars. Not only this, but you don't even need to pay to have fun in Madrid – the streets are often filled with revellers partying into the early hours of the morning. There's no stopping Madrilenos.

Madrid Q&A

The world is becoming a smaller place but our choices are increasing like never before, especially in travel. We at Peg’nRope looked at millions of travelers feedback, sought opinion of experts and put together this content titled : “Things to do in Madrid for the Year 2018”, best described as "Things to do in Madrid for the Year 2018. A compilation by Pegnrope resident experts"